Joelyn Dahl
I had the privilege of helping care for Ralph during the last few days of his life.
When I arrived on my first day, Ralph was just starting to transition. I saw Ruth assisting him to the bathroom, so I ran over to help. It quickly became evident that he was too weak to make it safely, so we helped him to his chair instead.
At some point before he sat down, Ralph stopped in his tracks and looked directly into my eyes. It was at that moment, as our eyes locked, that I believe we could see into each other's souls. I felt a deep connection, as if I had known and loved him all my life. I knew instantly that he was a gentle soul who loved his family more than life itself. I could tell he didn’t want to be a burden to his family, even though their love for him was undeniably unwavering.
I was welcomed by every member of the family with open arms. I knew that the warmth they showed me was a reflection of the unconditional, nonjudgmental, and unwavering love that Ralph had shown them throughout his life. All of these things I knew from that one look into Ralph's eyes.
I only had the pleasure of helping care for him for three days before his passing. He held on and was struggling, but he wouldn’t let go. Even with all of his family members at his bedside—reassuring him that everything was okay, that he was safe, that he was surrounded by loved ones, and that he would always be remembered—he still clung to life.
It pained us all to see him suffer. It wasn’t until he heard the voices of his great grandchildren over the phone, telling their Papa that they loved him over and over, that he was finally able to let go. That was what he was waiting for! It proved to me that everything I saw and felt when he looked into my eyes that first day was completely real. Everything I witnessed and learned in those three short days was proof.
Ralph was a great man who lived a great life. He was selfless, grateful, kind, gentle, and caring. You couldn’t know Ralph and not love him. He was the perfect example of everything the Bible says "love" is.
His legacy of love lives on through his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, extended family members, and everyone who was blessed to have known him—including myself. It was truly an honor and a privilege to play a small part in his journey and to help him transition.
Though it was sad to see him go, I know he is with Jesus Christ, reunited with the love of his life, where they will live in eternity together.
Rest in peace, Ralph. Thank you for showing us the true meaning of love by living it. We love you.
Joelyn Dahl-Newton
